Meet David Hula, a farmer from Charles City, Virginia, who has consistently set new world records in maize production.
In 2023, he achieved an astounding 623.8439 bushels per acre (approximately 41.93 tonnes per hectare) of maize, surpassing his own previous record of 616.195 bushels per acre (approximately 41.42 tonnes per hectare) set in 2019.
Before 2019, Hula had already made his mark in the National Corn Yield Contest, setting the world record in 2017 with 542 bushels per acre. This record was a significant leap from his previous record, set in 2015.
Hula’s success is attributed to his attention to detail, forethought, resolve, and the incorporation of the latest innovations on his fields. He’s known for his “try-anything-twice” attitude and his continuous efforts to improve his yield.
Hula’s quest for top yields begins 18 months before harvest, when he’s planting the previous year’s crop and field testing new technologies and theories. In 2018, he began using Precision Planting’s Conceal starter fertilizer system, which places up to two different products on his John Deere 1770NT planter.
Hula’s record-breaking yield was not produced on super-fertile, jet-black land. It was generated from one of Hula’s sandy-loam fields in Charles City County, Virginia. “Everyone thinks we have a magic piece of dirt. We don’t,” Hula says.
This record set in 2023 marks the fifth time Hula has set the world record and the sixth time since 2012 he’s taken first place in the National Corn Yield Contest.
Lessons for Farmers:
- Innovation and Experimentation: Hula’s “try-anything-twice” attitude shows the importance of being open to new ideas and technologies.
- Attention to Detail: Hula’s success shows that paying attention to every aspect of your crop can lead to improved yields.
- Planning Ahead: Starting your planning process 18 months ahead of harvest can give you a head start and allow you to test new theories and technologies.
- Understanding Your Land: Not all land is created equal. Understanding the unique characteristics of your land can help you tailor your farming practices for maximum yield.
Stay tuned for more updates on David Hula’s journey and his innovative farming practices. Let’s celebrate the hard work and dedication that goes into every kernel of maize!